RetrObrite

[Sandman]

Hi,

I have 'whitened' quite a few items in the last couple of months using this method and must say that the results are astounding.  That being said, be VERY cautious with 'non-white' items such as function keys, etc. as it is very easy to 'overcook' them and end up with a ghosted discoloration on the part which can't be reversed.  I have noticed this even on some badly yellowed pieces that never cleaned up completely and if I pushed it too much ended up with bad results.

I have found that natural sunshine works better that a UV lamp also - maybe it also ends up slightly heating the mixture also which may contribute to better results.  

All the above - my opionion only...... your mileage may vary.

Good Luck,
Tim

[Sandman]

Personally, I find that using the liquid works better than the paste.  I ending using more of the liquid than I would of the paste but just submerge my part in it in a plastic tub and then let it sit out in the sun, checking it once in a while.  Results have been fantastic!

I have found that when using the paste, i get brush marks when applying it and that sometime I can see the 'streaks' from the brush marks in the finished part.  It doesn't seem to matter how often I re-apply the paste to keep it wet and avoid brush marks that sometimes I get this result.  

For keys, I just put them in a glass jar with the liquid mixture and set them in the sun on my back-porch..... rinse with water, check results and repeat if I feel they need to soak more.

My opinion only.... just trying to help.

Tim

[Sandman]

**FULL DISCLAIMER!**
These are my OPINIONS only, I take no responsibility for your actions, risks or results .  What worked for me may not work for you - be safe and do your own research.  Definitely wear eye protection and be careful handling things that you don't have experience with!


I personally have purchased 1/2 gal. bottles of 20 or 30 volume at the local Sally Beauty supply store, mixed in 1/4 teaspoon or so (never really measured) of oxyclean and put it in a plastic tub sitting out in the sunshine.  Checked parts every so often as to not 'overcook' them - results have been astounding.  

Good Luck,

[Sandman]

Hey TJ,

I found the 20 & 30 volume at a local Sally Beauty Supply.  I personally have found the lower percent stuff works just as well it just takes a little longer.  As for the Oxyclean Versatile - you can find that at Albertson's or Bartell's Drugs here in the Northwest as well as other places.

For rubber cables, etc and other parts I find that just the Oxyclean works wonders.  It really cleans things up just watch some types of printed lables (takes the ink off sometimes).

[Sandman]

Great point Chain!  

I had some of the Peroxide/Oxyclean mixture left that I was going to reuse and poured it back in the the original plastic bottles. BAD IDEA!!!  Even with the cap left loose they blimped up and I was lucky that they didn't explode!  I was glad that I always try to work outside for that very reason.

Now I store in a non-airtight container.

[Sandman]

Hey TJ,

Just get the 40 volume creme peroxide... I found that mixed with the oxy works great and there is no need for a thickener.

However, I still prefer the clear liquid peroxide myself although you need to use more to immerse the part.  Keys in a filled mayonaise jar placed under the uv light works great!

Tim